Microsoft blocks Live Messenger access
Users in five countries will be without access due to US sanctions
Phil Muncaster
vnunet.com, 23 May 2009
Users in five countries will be without access due to US sanctions
Phil Muncaster
vnunet.com, 23 May 2009
Microsoft has said it is shutting off access to its Windows Live Messenger instant messaging service for users living in countries embargoed by the United States, according to reports.
The countries affected by the ban are Cuba, Syria, Iran, Sudan and North Korea, said a ZDnet.com report.
When trying to log in they will be met with an error message: “810003c1: We are unable to sign you into the .NET Messenger Service. Reason: Microsoft has discontinued providing Instant Messenger services in certain countries subject to United States sanctions. Details of these sanctions are available from the United States Office of Foreign Assets Control.”
According to ZDNet, a Microsoft spokesperson has confirmed the move, although as many of the sanctions imposed by the US date back nearly ten years, it is currently uncertain why Microsoft has decided to follow them now by banning the service. ~ read more
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